September 20 2026 APOD displays analemma above Callanish Stones

Astronomy Picture of the Day (APOD) released its September 20, 2026 entry today, featuring a striking analemma image taken from a satellite orbiting Earth. The photograph captures the familiar figure‑eight path traced by the Sun’s position in the sky over the course of a year, projected onto the planet’s surface. Accompanying the image is a concise explanation written by a professional astronomer, detailing the celestial mechanics behind the phenomenon and its historical use in timekeeping.

APOD, a long‑running program that showcases a new astronomical image each day, has been a staple of public outreach since its launch in 1995. The site curates a diverse array of photographs and illustrations—from deep‑space nebulae to planetary surface maps—providing context through expert commentary. The September 20 entry continues this tradition by highlighting the interplay between Earth's rotation, its orbit around the Sun, and the resulting apparent motion of the Sun against the backdrop of the sky.

The September 20 image and its accompanying description are now available on the APOD archive, where visitors can explore related submissions and educational resources. The next APOD release, scheduled for September 21, will feature another celestial subject, ensuring that the public continues to receive a daily glimpse into the science and beauty of the universe.